I suspect that doesn’t provide much of a competitive edge. Aside from that, bookstores can’t compete with Amazon so they shouldn’t try. Their target audience isn’t the same crowd, although there is some overlap. Bookstores have been hurt most by other bookstores and the rising cost of books. The over-saturation of giant bookstores is typical of these things and their failure was predictable. Once they finish washing out, smaller bookstores will begin to reappear. There will always be people who don’t live on the internet, want to browse actual shelves, and even pay with cash.

Recognition

TSP On This Day

Author Ian Irvine wrote an interesting article about the book publishing industry. For those who want to know, this article reveals the cold, hard truth about the nitty gritty of getting a book published.

REVIEW SUMMARY: The world-building is not as deep as Best Served Cold and The First Law trilogy, and there is a bit of a quick twist at the end but Half a King is a fast paced enjoyable read. MY RATING: BRIEF SYNOPSIS: Yarvi, second son of a King, born with only a partial arm, is heading for the ministry Continue Reading →

REVIEW SUMMARY: A great companion to a great show. MY RATING: BRIEF SYNOPSIS: Anthology of 21 essays examining the cult (and canceled) TV series Firefly. MY REVIEW: PROS: Excellent introspections into a great show; insightful; eye-opening; humorous. CONS: a brief episode guide would have been helpful; of little or no interest to non-fans. BOTTOM LINE: A hands down must-read Continue Reading →